Associate Degree for ACE Students

Do you want to advance your culinary career? You have valuable work and life experience already. But to succeed in today's rapidly evolving foodservice and hospitality industry, you need the "complete package"—skills, experience, and education.

The Associate Degree Program for Advanced Career Experience (ACE) Students is especially designed for experienced professionals, giving you the opportunity to get an outstanding CIA education—and degree in just 15 months.

The ACE advantage holds some great benefits for you:

• If you qualify, you can begin your studies at the CIA with six knowledge-equivalency credits, which eliminates the externship requirement and allows you to graduate in just 15 months.
• Once you graduate, you'll not only have your associate degree, but also ProChef Level 1 Certification from the CIA and a Certified Culinarian (C.C.) credential from the American Culinary Federation (ACF).

With your experience, you may already be on your way to a prized CIA degree. Check out the requirements below and inquire today to take your first step to becoming an ACE student.

Here are the eligibility requirements and application steps you will need to complete:

• Be an experienced professional, with 2.5 or more years of post-high school, full-time foodservice experience in establishments that work with fresh, whole-food products and a varied menu.
• Complete an ACE application form (PDF 47 KB).
• Submit a recommendation from your employer describing your foodservice experience.
• Submit your official high school or college transcripts.
• Interview—by phone or in person—with an admissions representative to document your career history, the level of responsibility in your job, and how the CIA degree will help you advance your career.
• Submit your essay of 400–500 words describing the person in your life who most influenced your interest in the foodservice and hospitality field. Include in your essay a discussion of your future career goals.
• It is preferred, but not required, that you submit a résumé detailing your relevant experience.

For more information, download a copy of the ACE brochure (PDF 186 KB)

Inquire now to get ready to enter our April 20, 2010 class. With a CIA education, your career can reach all new heights!